Kawhi Leonard has rejoined the Toronto Raptors after spending seven seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers. Leonard left Toronto in 2019 after securing the city’s first NBA championship, aiming to replicate the success in Los Angeles. However, the Clippers faced a disappointing outcome, failing to make the playoffs in the 2025-26 season and exiting in the first round in the three previous years.
Fans might ponder what could have been if Leonard had remained in Toronto. During his first stint with the Raptors, the team featured key players like Kyle Lowry, Serge Ibaka, Marc Gasol, and Danny Green, alongside rising talents such as Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, and Norman Powell. Leonard’s continued presence might have kept the Raptors competitive, with many of those players possibly still on the roster.
Upon Leonard’s return, the Raptors’ roster has changed significantly, now including RJ Barrett, a Toronto native and former No. 3 overall pick from the New York Knicks. Draymond Green discussed this development on his podcast, suggesting Barrett might be part of future changes. Green commented, “The Raptors might feel optimistic by combining Kawhi with Scottie Barnes. It wouldn’t be shocking if RJ Barrett eventually moved, considering the dynamics with ball handlers and team needs.”
Reflecting on Leonard’s previous departure, Green added, “I wonder if Kawhi regrets not staying in Canada despite the offers to keep him there.”
In his career, Barrett initially played with the Knicks before being traded to Toronto, where he has excelled. Notably, during the Raptors’ playoff series against the Cavaliers, he was the team’s top scorer, averaging 24.1 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game over 38.7 minutes.
At 26, Barrett will enter the final year of his contract, valued at $29.6 million, before becoming a free agent. His strong playoff showing, stable average of 20 points per game, and impressive 49.1% field goal accuracy make him attractive in potential trades. Still, he is vital to the Raptors, offering strength, versatility, and local ties. Unless a trade presents a clear path to elevate the Raptors substantially, he is likely to remain a core part of the team.